In this episode I am joined by Mark Zajdzinski AIA, DBIA, a Principal at SmithGroup, to discuss the award-winning California Institute of Technology's Chen Neuroscience Research Building in Pasadena. The building is on the corner of Wilson and Del Mar and serves as an administrative hub for the Division of Biology and Bioengineering with research disciplines focused on brain development and treatments. We dive into Mark's passion for the project, the team's commitment to sustainability, and how Mark's global studies influence his perspective on architecture. 

Throughout our conversation, we explore the intentional design choices which encourage collaboration among the various types of researchers. We also touch on the challenges of building complex neuroscience labs, and how Mark’s team created adaptable and flexible lab spaces which can evolve over time as needs and technologies change.

Plus, Mark reflects on his early career at SCI-Arc and the joys of being a participant in Greg Walsh's Japan Studio program, highlighting the connections between Japanese architecture and the eclectic nature of Los Angeles. He talks about his influences, the people who've inspired him the most, and the rewards of creating spaces that help shape our collective future.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• Designing a space that encourages interactions between all types of scientists and engineers 
• Using natural light to create a sense of balance and homey atmosphere 
• How SmithGroup approached the initial massing of the project 
• The initial goals for the sustainability of the building 
• How they were awarded the project and worked with multiple collaborators 
• Mark’s experience studying with Greg Walsh in his Japan Studio program
• How Mark’s studies in Japan and the Galapagos influenced his perspective on architecture 
• Why Mark was attracted to work at SmithGroup
• The skills necessary for architects to design complex science buildings
• What inspires Mark about working in LA 

Guest Info:

• Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
• Learn more about SmithGroup on smithgroup.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

Today, I'm joined by Patricia Rhee, FAIA, DBIA, a partner at Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects (EYRC), to discuss The Culver Steps project. The once underutilized triangular site in Culver City was transformed into an open-air gathering place for the community with fully leased creative office and retail space. In our conversation, we dive into the challenges faced during the design process, the future of Culver City, and Patricia's role as a founding co-chair of the AIA Los Angeles Women in Architecture Committee.

We touch on how the project evolved throughout the design process, the ways EYRC successfully approaches every urban site, and the potential of The Culver Steps project to serve as a model for developers in Los Angeles by showcasing the value of activated public spaces. 

Patricia also shares her background growing up on the east coast and what led her to architecture. She highlights the goals of the AIA Women in Architecture committee and how it evolved into a very popular conference. Plus, she offers advice for women pursuing a career in architecture, encouraging them to embrace diverse paths, share their stories, and release any shame around asking for help.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• The different design iterations and the project’s key partnerships 
• An overview of EYRC Architects, based in Culver City
• The challenges and solutions encountered throughout the design process 
• Patricia’s hopes and vision for the future of Culver City over the next 20 years 
• Patricia’s background at Penn and Harvard GSD, moving to LA, and her initial interests in architecture
• The goals, founding members, and origin of the AIA Los Angeles Women in Architecture Committee
• Advice for early-career architects 

Guest Info:

• Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn
• Learn more about EYRC on eyrc.com 
• Read about EYRC’s team on eyrc.com/studio 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

As Angelenos, we're all too familiar with the challenges of navigating the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). But, with the LAX Airport Metro Connector Project, we are set to experience a game-changing transformation in how people travel to and from one of the world's busiest airports. In this episode, I'm joined by Andrew Byrne, the managing partner at Grimshaw, an architecture firm known for its work in airport, rail, and mass transit designs, to discuss the intricacies of this ambitious project.

The goal of this project is to modernize the airport terminals, improve accessibility, and provide seamless connection between the Metro and the new LAX automated people mover. This will undoubtedly streamline travel in and out of LAX, reduce traffic congestion, and create an overall heightened passenger experience. In our conversation, Andrew shares his experience working with LA Metro, his vision for the future of public transportation in LA, and the key design principles of Grimshaw's projects.

We also dive into Andrew's background in architecture, his decision to move from London to Los Angeles, and Grimshaw's commitment to designing projects that are both functional and timeless. 

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• How Grimshaw's designs enhance and simplify the traveler's experience 
• The successful collaboration between Grimshaw, Gruen Associates, and LA Metro 
• A peek into Grimshaw's various revolutionary projects 
• What to consider when designing a future-proof project 
• Working with multiple stakeholders, jurisdictions, and firms 
• Andrew's perspective on the use of public transportation in a car-centric city 
• Why Andrew moved to LA 
• A typical week for Andrew in his role at Grimshaw 

Guest Info:

• Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Grimshaw on grimshaw.global
• Read about Andrew’s role on grimshaw.global/practice/people/andrew-byrne 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

In this episode, I’m joined by Haley Nelson, Design Principal at HGA, to discuss her recent collaboration with Vallarta Supermarkets on their new headquarters space. Vallarta is a family-owned Latin American grocery store chain with a significant presence in Southern California. After immigrating from Mexico to the US in the 1960s, the Gonzalez brothers founded Vallarta as a full-service grocery store catering to the needs of the Hispanic community. Today, they’re known for their customer service, quality, and fresh and authentic food. The design of their new HQ aims to reflect their values, enhance flexibility, and motivate employees while creating a sense of pride in the brand.

In our discussion, we explore the unique aspects of this project, including the collaboration with the Gonzalez family during the design process and the way Haley and HGA view design and architecture. Haley prioritizes trust with her clients, which was especially crucial with the Gonzalez family due to their fast-paced one-year timeline for the project. We touch on various workplace design elements, such as the lobby, central café, test kitchen, meeting rooms, private offices, and workstations, highlighting the attention to detail and quality. Plus, we address the impact of the pandemic on workplace design, emphasizing the need to redefine the purpose of the office and provide employees with a sense of autonomy in their work.

We discuss the collaborative nature of HGA and their commitment to understanding the people each space serves. Haley also expands on her role as the National Interior Design Practice Leader at HGA with her inspiring client-centric approach to design.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• How the original goals for the HQ were reflected into the final design  
• The personalized involvement of the Gonzalez family in the design process 
• The fast-paced timeline and challenges of completing the project within a year
• Balancing Vallarta's vibrant public brand with a more sophisticated office design 
• The ways the project focuses on making employees feel valued and seen 
• HGA's human-centered culture and collaborative approach 
• Haley’s role as the National Interior Design Practice Leader at HGA
• What Haley invisions for the future of workplace design post-pandemic 

Guest Info:

• Connect with Haley on Linkedin 
• Learn more about HGA on hga.com 
• Learn more about Haley on hga.com/people/haley-nelson 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

The population of Southern California surged by 52% in the 1940s and 1950s, prompting the initiation of the Huntington Beach energy project in response to the region's increasing energy demands. Fast forward to 2020, my guest Sean Madden's company, SPM Design, had the incredible opportunity to transform the power plant into a work of art. This massive effort was in collaboration with the AES Corporation, the city, state, and community of Huntington Beach. 1,600 gallons of paint later, the Kaleidoscope Mural adorns over 121,000 square feet of the surface area of the power plant, making it the largest mural in California. 

In our conversation, Sean discusses the process and permits necessary for the project, the beautification effort, and why the team chose the story behind the mural. We touch on how the project was inspired by the community of Huntington Beach, the unique challenges posed by working on a power plant during the COVID shutdown, and the positive impact it has had on the area. 

Sean talks about founding SPMD and growing his team to offer comprehensive design solutions to global clients. SPMD's approach to art and execution is unique, combining artistic vision with engineering expertise, risk management, and community collaboration. Sean also opens up about the challenges of running a business, emphasizing the importance of investing in people and continuous learning. 

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• The historical significance of the site
• The artistic beautification effort at the power plant
• Why the project reflects the community of Huntington Beach
• Kim West’s involvement and the story behind the mural 
• The city and community approval process for the project 
• How the Covid shutdown impacted the project 
• Sean’s interests and inspirations at the start of his career 
• SPMD's early stages, team building, and initial clients
• The process of founding and running a business 

Guest Info:

• Connect with Sean on Linkedin 
• Learn more about the mural on spm-design.com/kaleidoscope 
• Learn more about SPMD on spm-design.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

I've always been fascinated by the transformative power of lighting in architecture. Lighting can change the mood and feel of a space, yet it's often an under-appreciated element in design. Today, I'm joined by Brian Orter, a renowned lighting designer and the founder of Brian Orter Lighting Design (BOLD). Brian shares his passion for storytelling through lighting and his perspective on converting the historic Los Angeles Times printing press into a modern office space called The Press. 

In our conversation, we explore Brian’s unique approach to lighting design that celebrates the history of the space while creating an atmosphere of discovery, personality, and emotion. Whether a project is an office, restaurant, or nightclub, Brian's "imperfect perfection" philosophy aims to evoke unexpected beauty with an environment that encourages memories and romance. 

We also discuss Brian's unconventional introduction to the industry, leadership philosophy, team dynamics, and BOLD's bi-coastal presence in New York and Los Angeles. We touch on BOLD's origins and mission to nurture lighting design careers while fostering a respectful and collaborative studio environment. 

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• Brian's early introduction to lighting through high school theater
• The shift from theater and nightclub lighting to founding a multi-disciplinary company 
• Brian's emphasis on storytelling and collaboration
• Distinctions in design approaches between New York and LA
• Natural lighting in LA neighborhoods like Venice and Santa Monica 
• The history behind The Press, a creative office space 
• Applying hospitality principles to diverse projects
• Designing spaces that cultivate meaningful connections, emotions, and romance 
• Brian's successful and unsuccessful interactions with architects
• BOLD's enthusiasm for the future of LA

Resources Mentioned:

• Check out EYRC maintains industrial detail for office campus built in a former LA Times facility

Guest Info:

• Connect with Brian on LinkedIn
• Learn more about BOLD on www.boldllc.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

I sat down with Shawn Gehle and Christian Robert, Co-Founders and Principals of Office Untitled or "OU," to discuss the inner workings of their growing company and their exciting 6000 Hollywood development project. I've collaborated with Shawn and Christian since 2020 and can attest to their commitment to collaboration and taking on diverse projects. 6000 Hollywood is the type of project LA needs, and has the potential to redefine the eastern part of Hollywood. This podcast was recorded from the OU office in Culver City.

The 6000 Hollywood development is located on the 3.7-acre Toyota dealership along Hollywood Boulevard. They are in the early planning stages of this mixed-use endeavor, with intentions to include affordable housing, Class A office space, retail, and public outdoor spaces. Shawn and Christian unpack the project's design, the site's history, and OU's specific approach. 

In our conversation, they reflect on architects they admire, the books that inspire them, and their role as mentors to young architects. They open up about the ups and downs when building their company and OU's view on the future of architecture. They also discuss their perspective on practicing architecture in LA, the cinematic nature of the city, and how they are actively trying to mitigate the housing crisis. 

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• Shawn & Christian's journey in launching their own firm
• The give & take nature of teaching architecture
• The types of clients OU enjoys working with
• OU's connection to Burning Man 
• How the firm got involved in the 6000 Hollywood project 
• Breaking down the significance of the Hollywood Boulevard site 
• The timeline and lengthy entitlement process for the project 
• OU's approach to the housing crisis 
• Los Angeles’ cinematic allure
• The organic growth of OU's design strategy

Guest Info:

• Connect with Christian on LinkedIn
• Connected with Shawn on LinkedIn 
• Learn more about Office Untitled on www.officeuntitled.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

In this episode, Ryan Lovett, the Head of Design for the Americas at Lendlease, joins me to discuss his project at 3401 South La Cienega. The project showcases the exciting potential for future development at the intersection of urbanism and architecture. We dive into Ryan’s background in architecture, the key individuals that inspired him along the way, and his job responsibilities at Lendlease. We also touch on his perspective on key issues affecting Angelenos such as the LA metro, integrating business and real estate education into architectural education, and the housing shortages.

The project is located around the La Cienega/Jefferson metro station. It aims to transform an industrial area into an attractive mixed-use space incorporating affordable apartments, offices, and retail spaces. We unpack the complexities of navigating the Density Bonus incentive, public transportation, and the delicate balance between progress and community concerns.

When asked about the future of architecture, Ryan contemplates the potential impact of automation and AI on development. By prioritizing client collaboration, creative problem-solving, and asking the right questions, Ryan remains optimistic that we can shape the future in innovative ways.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• LA's influence on Ryan's career trajectory
• The importance of maintaining relationships with mentors 
• Importance of a broad education and being exposed to many concepts
• Debunking the myth of individual genius in architecture 
• Automation and AI 
• Unpacking Ryan's role at LendLease
• 3401 South La Cienega and its impact on Culver City's landscape
• Ryan's vision for the future of the area 
• Rethinking transportation solutions in LA beyond conventional approaches 
• The unique challenge of coordinating all of LA's jurisdictions

Guest Info:

• Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Lendlease on www.lendlease.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

Today, I'm joined by James Woolum, partner at ZGF Architects and Fellow of the AIA, to discuss the design of the California State LA Student Services Building. This design encapsulates the core values of sustainability, community, and accessibility, which will leave you optimistic about the potential of architecture to shape a better world. Throughout our conversation, James reminds us to leave something better than we found it, which is something we should employ in every venture.  

Due to damage from the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the building was abandoned for years. ZGF Architects saw an opportunity to transform the building into the heart of the campus, housing both essential student services and the university president's office. We discuss how the building's design fosters a sense of community, connection, and transparency, making it a welcoming and accessible space for students of all backgrounds. James shares insights into the thought process behind the project and the collaboration between ZGF and Cal State LA. We also touch on the importance of sustainable practices, adaptive reuse, and holistic design solutions. 

James prioritizes education and highlights the role of architecture schools in preparing future architects for real-world challenges. He offers advice to young architects, examines the broader implications of the architectural profession, and emphasizes the need for greater diversity in the field to inspire a more inclusive and innovative future for architecture.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• Cal State's original vision for the Student Services Building project and how ZGF's involvement shifted the direction
• Renovation with a focus on adaptive reuse, transformative design, and sustainable standards
• The building's history and the challenges posed by earthquakes 
• The inclusive and non-hierarchical nature of the building's design
• ZGF's team structure and James' architectural priorities 
• Benefits of working with willing and optimistic clients 
• The industry's responsibility to make architecture more accessible
• What excites James about being an architect in Los Angeles

Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about California State University, Los Angeles, Student Services Building
• Check out ZGF Architects Adapts a Derelict Campus Building in Los Angeles into an Energy-Efficient Educational Space 

Guest Info:

• Connect with James on LinkedIn
• Learn more about ZGF on www.zgf.com 

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn

Tune into Building LA every week, hosted by me, Sam Pepper. In each episode, I will interview the developers, architects, and decision-makers behind impactful projects. Our distinguished guests will share the specific challenges they overcame to realize a project, and lessons learned from all phases of the acquisition, entitlements, permitting, design, and construction process. Plus, what continues to excite them about working in this city. 

I’m a former architect turned developer who specializes in managing large, complex projects like the one I am working on now, the Westside Pavilion. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2019, I’ve been fascinated by the projects that are defining the future of LA, and want to learn more. 

Whether you are a local architect, developer, broker, work in corporate real estate, or are simply someone interested in the projects in and around your neighborhood of LA, tune in to be inspired by leaders within the industry, and listen to the insider perspectives on how these projects came to be.

Topics Covered:

• Welcome to the Building LA podcast
• About your host, Sam Pepper
• What topics we will cover in each episode
• The types of guests you can expect each week

Follow Us:

• Visit the Building LA website
• Connect with Sam on LinkedIn